Unplugging to “Re-plug”: How Cutting Wires Lets You Find Lost Ties

Do you feel compelled to check on your phone every few minutes? Do you feel disconnected from those around you? Does missing out on things online trigger anxiety or heightens stress levels? Maybe you find it hard to relax on your days off due to constant emails and whatnot. Then you might need a digital detox. 

Technology has enabled communication all around the globe. The internet, in general, has proven its power as it helped millions of people connect with their loved ones amid worldwide lockdowns. Working from home was made possible, and children could have distance learning despite the challenges the pandemic has brought. 

Without a doubt, technology has played a huge role in shaping and embracing our new normal. But just like any yang, there is always a yin. And as we rely heavily on them, so are the consequences they bring. 

Too much screen time puts a heavy load not only on your health but also on your kids. The availability and accessibility of these devices are intertwined in our lives, which, in most cases, makes it hard to let go. We often forget that as it makes our lives easier, it also steals our time for ourselves and our loved ones. 

A 2017 study found that sleeping problems, depressive symptoms, and increased stress levels are all linked to the heavy use of technology among adults. Subsequently, around 18% of adults in the United States reported that the use of technology is the primary source of stress in their lives.

That’s why it’s imperative to set a time to disconnect to reconnect. And no, it doesn’t mean simply deactivate your social media accounts or putting your phones on silent. When we say disconnect, it means ultimately giving yourself a break from anything that has to do with all the technology you have on hand.  But if we push pause on the things we were used to, how will we make things exciting? 

Nature adventure

The benefits of being outdoors are endless, especially on our physical and mental health. Short walks, hiking, or simply a quick trip to the park help you declutter your mind and a chance to classify the things that need to be. The open space and various colors that are pleasant to the eyes allow you to spend quality time with your loved ones. Also, it gives you an avenue to talk with them without any distractions. 

Take it outdoors

No time for walks? No problem. There are still plenty of things to do without having to risk yourself going out. Whether you love playing games or are thinking of trying one, why not build a port in your backyard and have some board games or solve some puzzles?

Picnics are also a fun way to bond with your family as it combines two comforting key ingredients: food and outdoors.

Cook together

Cooking is therapeutic. It gives you a sense of achievement which makes it rewarding in the end. It also sparks creativity as you explore new dishes and recipes. Preparing a dish helps bring people together that’s why it’s one of the best activities you can do with your family.

If you enjoy cooking and being outdoors, why not spice it up a little? Maybe revive your grandparent’s recipe in your outdoor kitchen in your backyard. It won’t only give you a chance to be one with nature, but it will also expand your entertaining space, lower utility bills, and make food tastes better.

Make your mealtime tech-free

We’re in an age where watching TV, scrolling over your phone, and the likes have become emotional pacifiers. Taking a digital detox lets you reclaim that connection, so make sure to incorporate it the next time to have one.

Gardening

This isn’t just about beautifying your lawn or the appearance of your house. Taking care of plants can also do wonders for our well-being mentally, emotionally, and physically. The efforts you put into bringing something to life require many activities that contribute to a healthy weight and blood pressure. Planting a tree or a small plant or even building a vegetable garden and making a point to stick to taking care of it every day can significantly improve your outlook in life and overall mood. 

To get a more successful result for your digital detox, make sure to set some ground rules, discuss its importance with your family and why you’re doing it before you start to do so. It also helps to evaluate the activity once it’s over to get each member’s insight and see how it has affected everyone may that be negatively or positively.

Helping you understand yourself and those around you is a fulfilling experience that makes you more present and mindful.

Meta title: Finding Lost Connections in the Digital Age
meta desc: Too much of a good thing often causes trouble. That saying also applies to all the technology we have in our hands. Has technology really replaced all human connections?